Thompson still hurting

One night’s rest wasn’t enough to heal the injured back of Hiram Thompson.

The senior point guard for the Hawaii basketball team said his lower back was still in pain on Saturday. He suffered the injury on Friday night, in the first five minutes of the Warriors’ eventual 86-57 victory over Chicago State.

“Pretty sore, still,” Thompson said. “Didn’t have a good night’s sleep. Hopefully it will just go away.”

The Warriors returned to Honolulu from Maui on Saturday morning. Thompson was able to walk on his own – gingerly, though – and even rolled his own luggage around the hotel and airport. His status remains in question for the upcoming Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic.

Hawaii will open the Classic on Wednesday against Florida State. The Warriors will play three games in four nights – Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday – during the tournament.

If Thompson cannot play, the Warriors may have to play the three games in four nights with just eight players, including only one true point guard – true freshman Bobby Miles.

“Realistically, you do get concerned,” Hawaii head coach Gib Arnold said. “You play this game with five (players) and as long as no one gets in foul trouble, I’m fine with eight.”

Senior forward Bill Amis has sat out the last five games with a foot injury. His goal was to return for the Diamond Head Classic, but his status remains in question

At least can have Wiseman bring up ball when Miles needs to be spelled. Expect FSU to sub early and often and try to dictate pace. They have 11 guys averaging 10+ mpg. Let’s hope they discover Keeaumoku St. in the next few days.